멕시코‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪20‬개의 천연기념물

Challenging, great views, easy to navigate.

This iconic spot, known as La Virgen del Ajusco, is located within the San Nicolás Totolapan Ejidal Park, in the area popularly known as Las Llantas. It is one of the most visited spots by mountain bikers, trail runners, and hikers in Mexico City. The site houses an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe carved into volcanic rock and surrounded by offerings, flowers, and banners. More than just an altar, it has become a meeting point and spiritual reference for those training or hiking in the Ajusco forests. Why visit? • It is a moderate but challenging access route: approximately 2.5 km uphill with a positive gradient of more than 600 meters, reaching 3,400 meters above sea level. • It is surrounded by a dense and cool forest, ideal for escaping the city heat. • From here, you can extend your route to longer routes, such as the Marlboro Valley, or even connect with Los Dinamos. • The park has signage, security, camping areas, and constant maintenance thanks to the recovery fee. What you'll see • The altar of the Virgin is moving for its simplicity and context: carved directly into stone, surrounded by silence and nature. • Abundant coniferous vegetation, red-earth trails, seasonal streams, and wildlife such as squirrels, birds, and butterflies. • Spectacular views of the forest and, on clear days, panoramic views that allow you to see part of the southern part of the city. Recommendations Bring enough water, some energy-boosting food, mountain clothing, and, if you're riding a bike, make sure your brakes are in top condition: the descent can be technical. Respect the environment, avoid leaving trash, and, if you reach the Virgin, treat yourself to a few minutes of silence. A short but intense route, both physically and symbolically. Ideal for training at altitude, reconnecting with the mountains, or simply breathing better.

A cycling classic 🚴‍♂️ Spectacular views, a safe location, and wonderful views. It's sometimes possible to enter the watchtower and see it from the top. There's enough room for a lot of people and benches. Here you decide where to get off, whether you'll go to Dinamos or the trails that descend toward the Alpino del Ajusco Lodge, or perhaps to the area's viewpoints like Zacacapa. Getting up here is a great achievement, but only the beginning of the adventure.

A wonderful place to visit, it's currently easier to access by vehicle (to a certain extent) and with parking. However, if you're someone who enjoys climbing mountains over 4,000 meters from the bottom, I'm sure you'll love the challenge. Don't forget that these are mountains, and weather changes can happen at unexpected times, so it's best to be prepared for anything, bringing hydration and food necessary for the effort and the weather. In the craters, you'll find two bodies of fresh water that form the Laguna del Sol and Laguna de la Luna. In the 1990s, you could dive at altitude in the icy waters. Visibility is very low, so it was done with instruments and good orientation, a dry suit, or a wetsuit for icy waters. Currently, only research personnel can do so with a special permit, as it is an ecological and archaeological reserve. Admission is fee-based, and on weekends, it's very crowded, so be patient and always respect the place. Leave it better than you found it, and enjoy! You can also get there by gravel bike or mountain bike, but achieving this requires good training due to the incline and altitude. Always remember: Respect the Mountain.

A breathtaking view of Mexico City from the rest area at the Virgen/Jungfrau at 3190m altitude

Your trash goes back with you.

Mandatory stop in Ajusco

Unfortunately, on the way from the pyramids you will be annoyed by many salespeople. This somewhat destroys the overall appearance of the facility.